Roofing Safety

In Ontario, employers are required to provide workers with fall-protection training if the workers will be exposed to fall hazards. Construction workers who could use a fall protection system must meet the working at heights training requirements of Ontario Regulation 297/13.

There must be a barrier at least two metres (six feet) from the perimeter of the roof when a built-up roof is being constructed. Barriers must include portable weighted posts supporting a stiff chain, cable or rope that is 1.1 metres above the roof level. [O. Reg. 213/91, s. 207]

Pipes bringing hot tar or bitumen to a roof must be secured and supported to prevent any bending. [O. Reg. 213/91, s. 208] When hot tar or bitumen is discharged within two metres of a roof's edge, there must be guardrails at the edge. [O. Reg. 213/91, s. 208]

When using a hoist, [O. Reg. 213/91, s. 209]

• install a guardrail on both sides of the frame at the edge of the roof,
• the cable must be continuously vertical while hoisting a load, and
• operators must be competent to perform the assigned roofing work.

Counterweights on a roofer’s hoist must: [O. Reg. 213/91, s. 210]

• be suitable for the purpose,
• not be made of roofing or other construction material,
• be securely attached to the hoist, and
• prevent against any overturning with a safety factor of three or higher.

In addition to the specific construction legislation referenced above, working on roofs can present a large variety of hazards and can require a variety of safety measures. Please review legislation and legislative responsibilities around relevant hazards or situations such as:

• musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs),
• heat stress,
• hazardous weather conditions,
• anchor systems,
• openings,
• suspended access,
• ladders,
• scaffolding,
• fall protection equipment,
• guardrails,
• working with propane, and
• personal protective equipment for hands, feet, skin and eyes.